Troubleshooting
Queen Mix Spider Flower problems — and how to fix them
Queen Mix Spider Flower (Cleome hassleriana) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Self-seeding too freely
Cleome is a prolific self-seeder; deadhead promptly if you want to control spread, or leave a few seed heads for a manageable colony next year.
Skin irritation from handling
The sticky, aromatic foliage causes contact irritation in some people; wear gloves and long sleeves when deadheading or removing plants.
Aphids
Large colonies of aphids can build up on stems in warm weather; treat with insecticidal soap or blast off with a firm water jet.
Powdery mildew
Common on crowded plants in dry conditions; thin plantings and treat early with a bicarbonate-based spray.
Slow start in cold soil
Seeds are slow to germinate below 18°C; wait until soil is thoroughly warm before direct sowing, or start indoors under heat.
Prevent queen mix spider flower problems before they start
Most queen mix spider flower issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Queen Mix Spider Flower problems — FAQ
Why is my queen mix spider flower self-seeding too freely?
Cleome is a prolific self-seeder; deadhead promptly if you want to control spread, or leave a few seed heads for a manageable colony next year.
Why is my queen mix spider flower skin irritation from handling?
The sticky, aromatic foliage causes contact irritation in some people; wear gloves and long sleeves when deadheading or removing plants.
Why is my queen mix spider flower aphids?
Large colonies of aphids can build up on stems in warm weather; treat with insecticidal soap or blast off with a firm water jet.
Why is my queen mix spider flower powdery mildew?
Common on crowded plants in dry conditions; thin plantings and treat early with a bicarbonate-based spray.
Why is my queen mix spider flower slow start in cold soil?
Seeds are slow to germinate below 18°C; wait until soil is thoroughly warm before direct sowing, or start indoors under heat.